Food Bank of Western Mass. awarded $200K to bolster food access efforts

Well, thanks to a generous donation, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts is in a stronger position to ensure residents can access the nutritious food they need. 22 News reporter Sarah BNMA joins us live in studio with how much the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts donated to the Food Bank. Yeah, Nikki CR. As more Massachusetts residents turned to food pantries for support, the Community Foundation donated $200,000 to the Food Bank. This comes at a time where food costs are rising, public policies are changing and funding for federal food assistance is reducing. Like in November, SNAP benefits were temporarily suspended. So in response, donors helped the foundation give back to the community, while staff dedicated some funds to the cause from their spending plan. We can receive donations all throughout the year, and so we've had different opportunities where donors have come forward and have started funds or have provided specific funds to really meet this community need right now. And throughout that time, Jeanette was able to meet with the executive director of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and their community partners. She learned how the nation will support the core operations and nearly 200 local pantries and meal sites across the region. Staff at the Food Bank also say this donation will help them expand its capacity through programs like the Mobile Food Bank and Brown Bag Food for Elders programs. Working for you, Sarah BNMA 22 News.